Maldives Coast Guard last night seized a foreign fishing boat allegedly operating illegally in the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Seven people were on board the fishing boat, which was intercepted by the MNDF Coast Guard vessel Imadhudhin.

The vessel was located 46 nautical miles northwest of Haa Alif Thuraakunu and is currently being brought to Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi, the MNDF said.

MNDF has not yet disclosed the country of origin of the vessel or its crew.

MNDF has previously intercepted foreign fishing vessels, including Iranian vessels, for allegedly operating illegally in Maldivian waters.

Separately, the Indian Coast Guard seized an Iranian vessel carrying 526kg of drugs west of Maliku.